1 Peter: Submission to the Shepherd

Our ultimate submission is to Jesus Christ, the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls. But he also calls us to submit to the human authorities he has placed over us. This passage commands slaves to submit to their masters with heart and actions, regardless of how kind or unjust their master is. Submission pleases God, fulfills the calling to follow Jesus’ example, and can be used by God to bring great results. If God calls slaves to submit in this way, how much more should employees show respect and obedience to their employers, who actually pay them for their work!

Sermon Outline  1 Peter 2:18-25

• How to Submit
  • With heart and actions
  • Regardless of the leader’s qualities
• Why to Submit
  • It pleases God
  • We are called to follow Jesus’ example
• Results of Submission
  • It is counter-cultural and God can use it powerfully

Discussion Questions

• What are some differences between slaves and employees? What are some similarities?
• How much harder is this passage to live out for a slave than for an employee?
• Since God calls slaves to submit with respect, what does he expect of employees?
• Do you have an adversarial relationship with your employer or a cooperative relationship?
• How respectful are employees at your workplace? If they are disrespectful, do you join in, or are you a contrast to them?
• What can you do to be a greater blessing to your employer or boss?
• Have you ever endured unjust situations at work? What motivated you to stay and endure rather than leave? How did it turn out?
• In what ways are we like sheep? In what ways is Jesus like a Shepherd to us?
• If Jesus is a perfect Shepherd and Overseer, why do we resist him at times?
• Can you think of a time when you resisted his will, but then found out his will was much better than what you wanted?
• How can you be more like Jesus in the way you shepherd those he has entrusted to your care?
• Extra credit: Read Ephesians 6:5-9 and Colossians 3:22-4:1. What do these passages add to the topic?